Marianna Pasteris acted for Samuel Tomlinson in proceedings before Derby Crown Court in 2013. ST was charged with conspiracy to evade the duty owed on imported tobacco. The conspiracy was alleged to be a large scale commercial operation with a loss to the Revenue in excess of £26 million.
ST was advised in relation to the evidence against him and negotiations were held with the Crown with a view to limiting his liability and entering an acceptable plea. The negotiations were successful and a basis of plea was entered on behalf of ST earning him credit and a reduction of sentence.
ST was sentenced to 10 months imprisonment after taking into account mitigation on his behalf.